Five Changes to Make Your Home More Comfortable for a Senior Citizen
If you are an older adult who wants to make your home a bit more comfortable or safe as you age, or if you are moving an elderly parent or other loved one into your home, you might be wondering about the changes that you need to make. This will obviously vary based on the individual and his or her specific needs, but these are a few improvements that you can think about making.
- Add a Comfortable Lift Chair
First of all, you should think about investing in a nice, comfortable lift chair. These chairs make it much easier for senior citizens to get up and down by themselves, and they can be quite comfortable for lounging as well.
- Move Furniture Around
There are a few reasons why you should consider moving furniture and other items around in the home. First of all, you will want to make sure that there is enough space for your loved one to get through with a walker or wheelchair if needed, and you’ll want to prevent tripping hazards. Additionally, you’ll want to ensure that your loved one can easily reach essential items, even if from a wheelchair if needed. For example, you might want to ensure that the landline phone is in a convenient location, or you may want to look into special phones for seniors.
- Remove Rugs
Rugs might look good in the home, but they can really get in the way for a senior citizen. Seniors who are wheelchair bound or who use a walker might have trouble getting around with a rug in the way. Additionally, a rug can pose a tripping hazard for a senior who might be unsteady on his or her feet.
- Install a Ramp
If you or your loved one uses a wheelchair or walker, installing a ramp can make it easier to get in and out of the house. Even for those who aren’t wheelchair-bound, walking down a ramp can be a whole lot easier and safer than trying to tackle steep stairs, particularly for someone who can occasionally be unsteady on his or her feet or who otherwise might be prone to tripping and falling.
- Install Grab Bars
Grab bars are cheap and relatively easy to install, and they can provide safety and confidence for senior citizens. Installing them near the bed, near the shower or bathtub or in other areas where a senior citizen might need a boost can be a smart choice. Just make sure that you install them properly, since you’ll want to make sure that they are fully steady and capable of fully supporting a senior citizens’ weight when he or she is relying on it.
Making a home more comfortable and safe for a senior citizen can be a lot easier than you might think. If you follow these tips, you can help ensure that your home is comfortable for yourself or an aging loved one.
